Windsurfing legend: Bjørn Dunkerbeck as a guest in the podcast "Not too old"

"I want to break 100 km/h on the board again" is still Björn Dunkerbeck's next big goal, as he explains in the podcast "Not too old". Author Kai Bösel met Dunki on the sidelines of the "Wings for Life" event in Kiel and chatted to him for the "For men who still have plans" format in the Saltwater Surfshop.

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Comebacks after setbacks

Bjørn Dunkerbeck has lived on Gran Canaria for decades, where he runs several surf schools. The island offers him ideal conditions to be active all year round - be it windsurfing, mountain biking or stand-up paddling. His philosophy is that exercise is quality of life. The body needs to be challenged, the mind needs focus. "Windsurfing is like mental training," explains Dunkerbeck. "You're in the here and now and have to concentrate, otherwise you'll fall off the board."

Windsurfing is like mental training. You're in the here and now and have to concentrate, otherwise you'll fly off the board."

In the podcast, the windsurfing pro also talks openly about setbacks in his career. Two artificial hips, shoulder problems and even harpoon accidents could not stop him from returning to the board again and again. Dunkerbeck presents himself as an athlete who can draw new strength from injuries - with discipline, clear goals and the unconditional will not to become a passive spectator. "I've never been a spectator. I'm a doer," he emphasises his attitude.

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Commitment to the environment and young talent

In addition to his sporting career, Bjørn Dunkerbeck is also involved in environmental projects. He plants corals, collects rubbish on beaches and passes on his knowledge as a coach. As the father of four children and organiser of the Dunkerbeck Speed Challenge, he motivates hundreds of people every year to get on a board and test their limits. He emphasises that beginners of an advanced age are also welcome to windsurf: "The material today is so light and stable, nobody needs to be afraid."

At 56, Bjørn Dunkerbeck is far from thinking about retiring. His view of old age is positive and forward-looking: "56 is the new 36. And if you stay positive, keep moving and live a healthy life - then there's still a long way to go!" This attitude is also reflected in his other plans, such as his intention to break the 100 km/h barrier on a surfboard again.

• You can listen to the podcast with Bjørn Dunkerbeck here